Why varicose veins should not be ignored Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic problem that impairs the relationship with one’s own body; for many, they are a source of distress; heaviness, burning sensations, night cramps and the risk of complications such as venous insufficiency or thrombosis. As someone who has lived through this problem, […]
Varicose veins are not only a cosmetic problem that impairs the relationship with one’s own body; for many, they are a source of distress; heaviness, burning sensations, night cramps and the risk of complications such as venous insufficiency or thrombosis.
As someone who has lived through this problem, but also as a columnist for a medical portal, I often observe how patients build their stories around symptoms that arrived quietly, gradually and from the background of life habits.
Understanding the main causes of varicose veins is not just listing risk factors; It is an insight into the dynamics of the blood that fights gravity and the everyday choices that speed up or slow down this process. That is why I bring an overview of five key causes with an emphasis on what can be done to stop or slow down the process.
A family predisposition to venous weakness often stands in the background of most cases. If your parents or close relatives have had varicose veins, your chances of developing them increase significantly.
Genetics affect the structure of the venous wall and the function of the valve, elasticity decreases, and the valves that prevent the backflow of blood do not close properly. The result is stagnant blood that dilates the veins.
Although we cannot change genetics, awareness of hereditary risk is an incentive for early prevention and regular check-ups with vascular surgery specialists.
Venous circulation in the legs depends on a muscle pump, which is activated when walking and moves blood towards the heart. When we stand or sit for hours, the muscle pump weakens and the pressure in the veins increases.
Chronic pressure and stagnant circulation gradually dilate the veins and weaken the valves. Professions such as teachers, hairdressers, nurses, waiters or office workers are often associated with a higher rate of venous complaints.
Solutions include: micro-breaks, wearing compression stockings, occasional leg raises and regular physical activity that stimulates circulation.
Each extra kilo puts more pressure on the veins of the legs and pelvis. Increased intravenous pressure disrupts normal blood flow, and a lower level of physical activity further worsens the condition.
Weight loss often leads to significant relief of symptoms and slowing down the progression of varicose veins. That is why weight control is an integral part of any varicose vein therapy.
Pregnancy hormones, oral contraceptives and hormone therapies change the tone of the venous walls and promote fluid retention.
Pregnancy in particular increases the pressure on the veins of the legs and pelvis, while hormonal changes make the walls of the veins softer and more susceptible to expanding. This is why many women notice the first veins during pregnancy or immediately after it.
Prevention includes weight control during pregnancy, moderate activity and wearing light compression garments.
Once venous function has been impaired by a thrombus, even after the clot has broken down, the valves may remain permanently damaged.
This causes post-thrombotic syndrome — chronic swelling, pain, and new varicose veins.
In such cases, a systematic therapeutic approach is required, often a combination of:
These causes do not act in isolation. Genetic predisposition forms the basis, while life circumstances such as profession, obesity and hormonal changes accelerate the process.
The most important thing is to react in time: varicose veins are a chronic but manageable problem.
Understanding the main causes of genetics, standing/sitting, obesity, hormones and post-thrombotic damage is key to prevention and timely treatment.
In the hands of the expert team of the Lohuis Filipović Medical Group Polyclinic, with the education and engagement of the patient, it is possible to significantly slow down the development of the disease and improve the quality of life.
No. Although aesthetically visible, varicose veins often cause pain, heaviness, swelling and cramps, and can lead to serious complications.
If you notice swelling, pain, a feeling of heaviness or discoloration of the skin on your legs, it’s time for a vascular examination.
Options include compression therapy, laser procedures (EVLA) and sclerotherapy – depending on the degree of damage to the veins.
With advanced methods such as endovenous laser ablation, it is possible to achieve permanent results and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
Now that you know the causes and mechanisms of varicose veins, don’t wait for the problem to become serious.
Our team of experts from the Lohuis Filipović Medical Group Polyclinic will help you with prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
📞 Call now: +385 1 2444 646
📧 Send inquiry: info@lfmedicalgroup.com
📍 The Libertas Building, 5. and 6th floor, Trg Johna F. Kennedya 6b, 10000 Zagreb
➡️ Make an appointment and take the first step towards healthy, light legs.
